Why Decision-making Capacity Matters

Abstract Decision-making Capacity ( dmc ) matters to whether a patient’s decision should determine her treatment. But why it in this way isn’t clear. The standard story is that because autonomy matters. And thought justify as gatekeeper for – whereby concerns arise if but only patient has . appeals invoke two distinct concerns: concern authenticity choice consistent with an individual’s commitments; and sovereignty individual exercises control over which hers control. Here, I argue, neither can alone explain Instead, indicates harmony between the demands of each are more likely agree This vindicates story, also makes clear inappropriate autonomy.